The Values of An Entourage

Few television shows can match the pop culture appeal of Entourage. No cable TV series has matched the significant footprint this show has left behind in male culture. Last year, as one of the most substantial cultural influences of the past decade came to a conclusion, we were left hopelessly wishing the upcoming full-length films span a trilogy.

Those unfamiliar with the character depth and intricate story line of this iconic series might shrug it off as another egocentric show for men. Sure, there were the Ferraris, parties, money, and beautiful women. One could feasibly attempt to argue that it was a gross glorification of hedonistic excess.

The members of your entourage should be your best friends. These men should be smart, loyal, personable, ambitious, and have their eye on the prize: success.

Yet, upon further inspection, such a claim is a drastic simplification of the intricacy of this show. We all aspire to attain fame and fortune to some extent, but a consistent theme throughout Entourage was the invaluable importance of friendship. It taught us that without a stable network of support from the ones we love, wealth has no real significance.

We can all find qualities within these thoroughly developed characters that are similar to our own. From the aspiring to the successful and established, each role provided men with a feeling of similarity of experience.

The importance of enabling those around you: You Are Who You Surround Yourself With.

We can all identify countless celebrities who have had their livelihood rapidly decline because of an unstable network of fake, manipulative “friends”. Joining the ranks of the elite in-crowd should not result in the acquisition of a legion of cheering “friends” seeking to capitalize on your success. Stay true to those who supported you when you had nothing—those who believed you held value before you achieved success. These are the people who will always truly have your best interest in mind.

Many will egg you on to lavishly indulge in your wealth—partying, drinking, and binging on a variety of substances. Yet, how many will place their own desires on hold and tell you when you’re approaching decline?? Those who will are the true friends. If you feel accomplished due to a wealth of individual surrounding you, tread carefully. Chances are few are worthy of anything beyond the title of “acquaintance”. Keep your circle exclusive.

 You must carefully choose the members of your entourage. Consider what you can offer them, what they can offer you, and how you can combine your talents to propel yourselves to success.

Hard Work Pays Off
Sacrifice is a difficult concept for most to grasp. We all seek instant gratification through rewards; yet remain unwilling to struggle along the way. Ari Gold instilled the importance of a diverse portfolio and a 24-hour, unceasing work ethic on men everywhere. From TV to the NFL, Ari exemplified the true spirit of a successful entrepreneur.

He taught us the importance of being passionate about your work regardless of the daunting with obstacles he faced in both his personal and professional lives. His work ethic was a testament to his own success and that of his clients. Regardless of the necessary measures of any circumstance, he found a way to execute the deal.

Sometimes, you have to sacrifice for the greater good.

Change the world with the money. Don’t let the money change you.
Money is great–we all know this. However, if one is not thoroughly prepared to handle this blessing, money can actually detract from your quality of life. Entourage suggested that doesn’t necessary have to result in personal character change. Yet, it certainly can have a significant impact on the actions of those around you. As we have witnessed in this series, within the span of a single year you can have a rapid ascension from irrelevance to being a household name.

By surrounding yourself with those invested in your success and well being, you can ensure the longevity of your life and career. Throughout the peaks and valleys traversed, the characters maintained true to themselves in a world based on superficiality.

Family First
Blood does not have to be the determining factor of those you consider family. Family members provide you with life lessons and invaluable shared experiences. They will love you unconditionally for the rest of you life. Similar to our team at Elite Daily, the characters of Entourage share a great appreciation of their family—particularly their mothers.

In a particular episode, the crew attests to the significance of family when, on the night of a movie premiere, they chose to bring their mothers to a movie premiere instead of gorgeous women. This, we feel, should drive the point that a wealth of love is more important than riches.

Remember: When the money goes, those who love you will still be there.

Elite Daily